Thursday 24th December 1942

I started in galley again, after swearing I'd never go in galley again, but the steward is different. Forgetful but quite a nice decent chap and clean. He is very glad to have me and already we are pals. I do not have to peel spuds now as we have got a boy, tired but willing, slow to grasp anything. Some of the crew are glad to see me there, as also are some of the officers.

Typical Galley

The Yankee ship behind started firing. We thought they were in trouble, only practice.

We arrived in Belfast at 4:30 to be greeted with more firing from shore. Anti aircraft at target towed by plane. Lovely sight, puffs in sky over sea. Saw the sunken ship again. Boys no more sea sick. Had more rum and whisky tonight, it being 1:30 Xmas morning before we got to bed. Cook and I worked all this while preparing for Xmas day. The Steward did the turkey, seven of them. We had to steam then bake them. I did the pies and the cook the puddings and cake. Enough for 47 hungry gits who won't , nor never do, appreciate it.

Here is the Xmas Menu.

Porridge or Corn flakes
Ham Eggs mashed potatoes
Tea or Coffee
Marmalade,

Dinner

Soup (pea)
Turkey
Peas and beans (French) Baked and boiled, Seasoning
Christmas Pudding
Cheese coffee Tea.

TEA

Fish and Chips
Cold Ham
Fruit Salad
Orange apples ,nuts
Cake
Mince Pies

How's that?!